It’s possible that this guy would have been limping a lot more, or wouldn’t have run Pikes Peak at all (assuming he did, based on the shirt and the presumed, post-race limp), had he worn “regular” running shoes, as recent studies suggest some traditional shoes actually cause overuse injuries. And, good for him for pushing hard at a tough race. Regardless, it was an interesting way to start off the night.

Christopher McDougall is a dynamic speaker. He commands a room full of folks—some in sandals, some in minimalist running shoes, some in said “regular” shoes, and some wearing no shoes at all—like a riveting preacher. The audience hangs on his every word, nods their heads in agreement, and some look like they’re about to yell out, “Hallelujah!” at the mention of the word “barefoot.”

Don’t get me wrong: I believe in barefoot running. I think it’s a beneficial and interesting training tool, and I love how major shoe companies are stripping down their shoe models to offer minimalist options…very possibly inspired by McDougall’s book.

But what interested me most about hearing McDougall speak was the worldview he presented, wrapped around running, minimalism, being a kind and selfless person, being one with nature as we were all born to run… and the vibe in the room.

McDougall spoke of the “absence of fear of being humane,” and how barefoot running creates a “lack of fear of your body.”Was it inspirational? You bet.

The day after the talk, I ended my hour-long run with five or six minutes of shoeless running around a grassy park. I did feel like I was running more upright than usual. I was taking shorter strides. I noticed my lower legs and feet doing a lot of work, which I liked. And I enjoyed the grass between my toes. I felt uninhibited, natural, and free. (And, I didn’t step on any glass, like I did running barefoot down a neighborhood sidewalk a couple weeks prior.)

Will I stop wearing shoes altogether, as McDougall recommends starting totally barefoot, and, “adding protection as needed?” No. I’m someone who’s worn orthotics for 16 years and think I need to ease into going more minimal. But I will continue to experiment with barefoot running, as I experiment with different shoes.

But my question, after listening to McDougall speak and seeing the command he holds over a room, is this: Is barefoot running a worldview? Or a way to run?